How to make a Minecraft server for you and your friends
Running your own Minecraft server means your world is always there for your friends, with your rules, your plugins and your mods. Here's how to do it without the headaches.
1. Pick where the server runs
You can run a server on your own PC, but it has to stay on whenever anyone wants to play, and you'll need to set up port forwarding on your router, which exposes your home connection. A hosted server avoids both: it's online 24/7 and friends connect to an address instead of your home IP.
If you just want to try it, you can claim a free Minecraft server with no credit card.
2. Choose your server software
- Paper: the best choice for most servers. Faster than Vanilla and runs plugins like EssentialsX and WorldEdit.
- Vanilla: plain Minecraft exactly as Mojang made it. No plugins or mods.
- Fabric: a lightweight mod loader, popular for performance mods and newer versions.
- Forge / NeoForge: the loaders most big mods and modpacks use.
Plugins and mods are different things: plugins run on Paper and don't need anything installed by players; mods need a mod loader on both the server and every player's game.
3. Pick how much RAM you need
For a few friends on Paper or Vanilla, 2 GB is enough. A busier server or light mods need about 4 GB, and big modpacks need 6 to 8 GB or more. See our full RAM guide.
4. Create the server
On VantaHost, choose a Minecraft plan, pick your software and version (or a modpack), and pay. The server is created and started automatically. Your server address appears in your client area.
5. Invite your friends
In Minecraft, go to Multiplayer → Add Server and paste the address, including the port after the colon (for example 123.45.67.89:25600). Everyone must be on the same Minecraft version as the server.
6. Make yourself an operator
Open the console in the game panel and type op YourName. Operators can use commands like /gamemode and /time set day.
7. Keep it safe
- Turn on the whitelist so only people you add can join:
whitelist on, thenwhitelist add Name. - Keep online mode on so players must own Minecraft and can't pretend to be someone else.
- On Paper, add CoreProtect so you can roll back griefing.
8. Add plugins or mods
Paper servers can install plugins in one click from Manage server. Our list of the best Minecraft server plugins is a good place to start. For mods, switch to Fabric, Forge or NeoForge, or install a whole modpack.